Changes to pre-charge bail limit introduced

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead on Pre-Charge Bail, Assistant Chief Constable Darren Martland, said:

“Chief officers have worked closely with the Home Office and College of Policing to ensure that forces are aware of the reforms around pre-charge bail and ready to implement them.

“There will now be a presumption in favour of releasing suspects from police custody without bail unless strict criteria are met. Bail itself is subject to time limits and various statutory and judicial safeguards.

“The legislation represents a significant change in procedure but police forces and criminal justice agencies will continue to give careful consideration to the safety of victims, witnesses, and the general public, which will be balanced against the rights of a suspect.”